A WEST FIFE teenager believes he's hit the right note on his dream to becoming a pro footballer after starting a scholarship Stateside.

Former Dunfermline High School pupil Cameron Coutts, 18, isn't feeling the blues after leaving home earlier this month for Tennessee to study and further develop his game.

Moving across the Atlantic had struck a chord with Cameron who, after attending an assessment day organised by sports consultancy organisation Future Pro USA, saw his American dream come true.

Now, the Hearts fan, who has previously played for Bayside, West Fife Phoenix Falcons, Rosyth FC, Elgin Star and his school, hopes to follow in the footsteps of a former Tynecastle star, 69-times capped Scotland defender David Weir, and play professionally after studying in the USA.

"I think with playing football for as long as I can remember, playing professionally has always been something I've wanted to do, and the opportunity to come across here was something that I couldn't resist really," Cameron explained.

"Being able to almost work like a professional, and continue my studies at the same time, was something that I felt was an opportunity I had to take – and the chance to live in the States played a big factor in my decision!

"We had looked at a few agencies to see what was involved in the process and what they could offer, and Future Pro stood out the most. After we decided we wanted to go with Future Pro, I went for a trial up in Forfar. We heard back from them about a week later, with them saying that they'd like to go further with me, and from there on I just had to put in the hard work to help me come across here.

"David Weir is certainly one who came back from America and made a good career for himself. Hopefully, if everything goes to plan, then I could come back and play professionally in Scotland, or even somewhere else – but I've got a bit of time before then!"

Right back Cameron, who can also play as a centre back, is studying Health and Physical Education/Fitness at Bethel University, who compete in the NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics), and admits he has been blown away by his new surroundings.

"The facilities here at Bethel are fantastic," he continued.

"The training room and gym we have are great, and so are the people who work in there; they've helped me settle in.

"I would say the standard of coaching and play is better than I expected. The training has been tough, especially having just come out of pre-season, but I would say it was worth it. The coaches know exactly what they're doing, which is good to see. Their training has been excellent and different from what I'm used to."

Cameron added: "I think in the league, the furthest we play is Texas, which is a fair bit away, however, if we make Nationals this year, then we travel to California. There's definitely a lot more travelling than I would do back home!

"We've got really good players in every position, and hopefully we make nationals this year and kick-on in California."